Let's Make a Difference: We Can Help Orangutans

Nonfiction Picture Book Wednesday

Here at Teach Mentor Texts we are always looking for more ways to support teachers! We've found that teachers seem to be constantly on the lookout for great nonfiction. We know we are! To help with this undying quest for outstanding non-fiction, we are excited to participate in Nonfiction Picture Book Wednesday hosted by Kid Lit Frenzy and The Nonfiction Detectives. Every Wednesday, you'll find a non-fiction review here - although it may not always be a picture book review. Please visit Kid Lit Frenzy to see what non-fiction others have to share, too.

Title: Let's Make a Difference: We Can Help Orangutans

Author: Gabriella Francine

Publisher: BBM Books

Publication Date: October, 2013

Genre/Format: Nonfiction/Picture Book

Goodreads Summary: This fun and colorful book helps children come up with strategies to contribute to the well-being of orangutans.

What I Think: Protecting apes is a passion of mine and I love that this nonfiction book for kids not only teaches kids about orangutans, which are such amazing creatures, but it also teaches the reader about what it means to be endangered, rain forests, palm oil and how even the littlest person can help. I like that no where in the book does it seem to talk down to the reader. When I look at nonfiction for kids, I want it to include the same facts as it would for adults and this one does. 
     The first half of the book is primarily about the orangutan species and what makes them unique as well as why they are endangered. The second half shares how kids can help the orangutans. All of this is accompanied with beautiful illustrations and fun facts throughout. 

     I love that this book (and I hope a series) shows children that they can make a difference. That the decline in our Earth does not have to be something that we just sit and come to terms with; there are ways to make it better. 

Read Together: Grades K to 3

Read Alone: Grades 1 to 5

Read With: Ape by Lisa Magloff, Chimpanzees I Love: Saving Their World and Ours by Jane Goodall, Can We Save the Tiger? by Martin Jenkins

Snatch of Text: "Even if you can't visit, you can help." (p. 21) 

"Orangutan Fun Fact: Not just birds have nests. Orangutans will build a nest every night high in the trees, to sleep in. Sometimes they even add a roof of leaves!" (p. 8)

Mentor Text for: Nonfiction Text Features, Author's Purpose 

Writing Prompts: What are some other ways that you could help the orangutan and its habitat? 

Topics Covered: Orangutans, Endangered Species, Palm Oil, Fundraising, Organizations

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